A regional business leader has warned that businesses have been left with stark choices as their tax bills hit record highs.

Candy Richards - regional boss at the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) - warned that with confidence among small firms at an all-time low, government must act or there will be few small businesses this time next year.

“The reality of today’s budget is that the tax burden on businesses and their customers is now at a record high," she said.

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“The huge hikes in the cost of employment are hikes many small firms simply cannot afford.

"Businesses will be left with a stark choice – increase prices or cut jobs.

More: Business owner says she is feeling 'quite relaxed' about the Budget

"Both of these scenarios have di

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